Plantar fasciitis is among one of the most common causes of heel pain. If left untreated, it can have a number of entirely avoidable impacts on an individual’s body.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a condition that involves the inflammation of the fibrous band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes on the bottom of the foot, known as the plantar fascia. Pain associated with this condition can range from mild and occasional to severe, limiting one’s ability to perform everyday activities and exercise comfortably.
Possible Symptoms
Sharp Heel Pain
Plantar Fasciitis is often accompanied by a sharp pain in the heel, with increasing intensity when walking or standing.
Pain When Bending the Foot
There can also be pain when bending the foot, usually near the arch, due to the tightness in tissues that typically come with inflammation.
Stiffness
A person suffering from plantar fasciitis may find that the heel and lower foot are quite stiff when they first get out of bed in the morning, and after periods of rest such as long car rides, due to the lack of stretching in those areas.
Complications of Plantar Fasciitis
Decreased Mobility
Without proper treatment and management, plantar fasciitis can worsen, making it difficult to walk or stand. This can lead to a decrease in one’s overall mobility, and thus, a decrease in their quality of life.
Inability to Exercise or Perform Physical Activity
Left untreated, plantar fasciitis can make it difficult to exercise or perform physical activities, due to the intense pain that can be present in the heel and arch area.
Increased Risk of Other Foot and Joint Problems
The plantar fascia can become torn if left untreated for too long, which can lead to an increased risk of other foot and joint problems, such as inflammation in the Achilles tendon.
People Also Ask
What are the long-term effects of plantar fasciitis?
If left untreated, plantar fasciitis can lead to more serious issues such as an increased risk of other foot and joint problems, decreased mobility, and an inability to exercise or perform physical activities.
Can plantar fasciitis cause long-term damage?
Yes, if left untreated, the plantar fascia can become torn, which can lead to long-term damage.
What is the best treatment for plantar fasciitis?
Treatment for plantar fasciitis can vary, but it usually involves a combination of rest, stretching, physical therapy, and wearing shoes with good arch support.
How long does it take for plantar fasciitis to heal?
Depending on the severity of the condition, the healing process for plantar fasciitis can take several months or even longer with the proper treatment and management.
What type of exercises can I do for plantar fasciitis?
Typically, for plantar fasciitis, exercises such as calf stretches, toe stretches, and heel stretches are often recommended by physical therapists.
Final Words
It is important to take the early signs and symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis seriously, as it can lead to long-term damage if left untreated. To best manage the condition and minimize its effects, seeking out professional advice from a physical therapist and engaging in the recommended exercises and therapies is essential. With the right proactive approach, anybody can manage the effects of plantar fasciitis, and get back to an active lifestyle.